Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists the impression that his side struggles towards the end of the season is false.

The Gunners are in a strong position to challenge for the Premier League title this season, but doubts remain over whether the club can make it to the finish line and win the league for the first time in over a decade.

Wenger’s side have challenged occasionally over the past 10 years but supporters have often had to settle for a spot in the top four as big-spending clubs beat Arsenal to the title.

While they are currently the bookies’ favourites to take the crown this season, Arsenal have a reputation for running out of steam towards the end of the season and fans and pundits remain largely unconvinced this year.

But the Arsenal boss insists that his side’s fragile mindset at this point in the season is just a myth, backed up by no statistics.

“I read things sometimes that are not completely verified by the statistics,” Wenger said.

“The perception is that Arsenal fade in March and April but for 20 years we were stronger in the second part of the season.

“It’s true that we lost the title once or twice but you could say that for Manchester United as well or for any team.

“In 2010 we faded but overall over a long distance we always finished stronger, even when we were under huge pressure. The perception is not based on numbers, that’s what I’m trying to say.

“Now the players are focused, they do not look at what happened five years ago.”

Arsenal have a chance to strengthen their title credentials this weekend when they travel to Manchester United for a vital Premier League clash.

The Red Devils currently sit fifth in the table and they are struggling with a lengthy injury list at present.